The first Montanan has died from COVID-19, Gov. Steve Bullock announced Thursday.
“I’m heartbroken to learn of Montana’s first death due to COVID-19. Especially during these times, Montana truly is one big small town – this news hits us hard, but we’re in this together. My family and I send our love and support to the family, friends, and community of our fellow Montanan," Bullock said in a statement.
No other information was given about the death, including county of residence or age. Local public-health officials are notifying family members, according to Bullock's office.
Seven people have been hospitalized in Montana from COVID-19.
Montana has 90 cases of COVID-19, the disease caused by the coronavirus, as of Wednesday afternoon.
Earlier in the day, Bullock also issued a stay-at-home directive starting Saturday, which directs the closure of nonessential businesses with the aim of reducing the spread of the coronavirus. Read the directive here.